TUF 15 Results: Michael Chiesa honors father’s memory with decision win

One of the most emotionally stirring moments in TUF history occurred earlier this season when contestant Michael Chiesa learned his father had died within hours of him qualifying for a spot in the house with an elimination round win. After being given an opportunity to go home for a day to mourn with his family, Chiesa came back with a new sense of purpose and exhibited such last night by taking out Jeremy Larsen by way of decision.

Chiesa’s success on the scorecards came as the result of his wrestling, a key aspect of coach Urijah Faber’s thought process when making the match-up last week. Chiesa was able to take Larsen down and control him throughout the bulk of their two-round tilt with the only real moment of suspense coming when he landed an illegal knee costing him a point.

Faber Discusses How Good Beating Cruz as a Coach Feels

“This is dedicated to my mom, Teresa Chiesa,” said the Spokane-area fighter after his win. “It definitely wasn’t my best performance but I know what things I need to change and do better. Most importantly, I need to manage my weight better and be more confident in all my skills. I promise I’ll be putting someone to sleep next time.”

Next week’s fight will feature Chris Tickle (Team Cruz) against Joe Proctor (Team Faber).

“I knew that that was the match-up they would make and I feel very confident in the match-up and will be victorious. For the last four weeks, Dom and the staff busted our ass to get us in shape and I feel 100% confident in my coaches and my cardio for this fight,” said Tickle of Dominick Cruz and company. “I’m ready to bang and get a W. I’m 100% healthy and injury free and can’t wait for next week.”

The statement from Tickle is particularly interesting, as this week’s episode featured him expressing concern over gout-like symptoms on his toe and ducking out of training while claiming to need to use the restroom.

TUF 15 Season Summary:

Cruz’s Team: Justin Lawrence, Sam Sicilia, Myles Jury, Mike Rio, James Vick, Vinc Pichel, Chris Tickle, Jeremy Larsen

Faber’s Team: Al Iaquinta, Cristiano Marcello, Daron Cruickshank, Joe Proctor, Michael Chiesa, John Cofer, Andy Ogle, Chris Saunders

Team Records: Cruz 2, Faber 2

Advancing to Semifinal: James Vick, Justin Lawrence, Al Iaquinta, Michael Chiesa

Eliminated: Daron Cruickshank, Cristiano Marcello, Myles Jury, Jeremy Larsen

Next Week’s Fight: Chris Tickle vs. Joe Proctor